Problem #1-
I have a Orion telescope about 3 years old. The grease in the focuser feels like.... 3-year-old maple syrup. What can I clean this stuff off with? Is isopropyl alcohol typically safe? Most of the parts are metal, but there are pads of what looks like plastic that the focus tube rides on.

...Also I have seen dry lubricants mentioned, are these generally the better choice? I have some Remingont dri-lube, that is teflon powder in an evaporating carrier. Does this sort of lube typically harm plastics?

Problem #2-
I finally got around to ordering a Telrad, and there's nowhere good to stick it on the telescope tube. The only way I can see is to peel off the very ends of the mounting tape and stick it on the tube rings, but I'm wondering if it will get knocked off easily during transporting.... Is there any other really good way to mount this on a short scope?

Thanks